Bold Ideas. Transformative Impact. Listen to one of South Africa's leading open, laparoscopic and robotic surgeons, Dr Zaheer Moolla, alongside top researchers, industry leaders and policymakers, at the 2026 Unisa Catalytic Niche Area Research Symposium – where innovation shapes Africa's future.

Moolla is a general surgeon and CMSA-certified surgical gastroenterologist with consulting practices in Umhlanga and Ballito. Moolla matriculated from Stanger Secondary School before obtaining his medical degree from the University of Pretoria. He completed his internship and community service in KwaZulu-Natal before specialising in general surgery at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. He then subspecialised in surgical gastroenterology. During this time, he also earned his Master of Medicine degree from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Moolla is proficient in open, laparoscopic, and robotic surgery. He is the only certified colorectal surgeon in KZN and the first certified robotic surgeon in the province. He remains actively involved in academia, serving as an examiner for the surgical gastroenterology sub-speciality certificate examination and reviewing articles for several local and international journals. He is a member of multiple surgical societies and currently serves as President of the South African Colorectal Society (SACRS).

Panellist. CNA 8. Health Studies/Medicine

Wednesday 29 July 2026

• Venue: Senate Hall, 2^nd floor, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Building, Muckleneuk Campus, Pretoria
• Broadcast: Braam Fischer Auditorium, 3rd floor, Calabash Building, Science Campus, Florida, Johannesburg

About the 2026 Unisa Catalytic Niche Area Research Symposium

Across Unisa's ten Catalytic Niche Areas, delegates will engage in interdisciplinary dialogue, establish strategic partnerships and showcase research that informs policy, advances innovation and delivers meaningful societal impact.

More than a research symposium, this flagship event serves as a platform for collaborative engagement and transformative thinking, translating knowledge into evidence-based solutions that support sustainable development and address complex societal challenges.

Join us as we strengthen research excellence, foster cross-sector collaboration, and transform catalytic thinking into impactful outcomes.

Click here for more information and to register.

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* By Virginia McManus, Manager: PR, Communication and Marketing, Directorate Research Support